MUZAFFARABAD: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) is witnessing growing political tension as authorities strengthen security measures ahead of upcoming legislative elections and a major protest planned by the Jammu Kashmir Awami Action Committee (JKAAC).
More than 1,500 Islamabad police personnel have already been deployed across the region. Equipped with anti-riot gear and supported by counter-terrorism and surveillance units, the forces are part of an extensive security plan designed to maintain order before a wheel-jam and shutter-down strike called by JKAAC for June 9.
Officials fear the situation could deteriorate further. To prepare for any unrest, the AJK government has requested more than 14,000 additional personnel from Pakistani security agencies. Reserve forces have also been placed on high alert, reflecting concerns about potential clashes in sensitive areas.
The heightened security comes shortly after the Election Commission announced that general elections for the AJK Legislative Assembly will take place on July 27. Authorities have pledged to conduct free, fair, and peaceful elections under judicial supervision, but political disagreements continue to cast a shadow over the electoral process.
At the heart of the controversy are 12 assembly seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees residing in Pakistan. JKAAC has strongly criticized the arrangement, arguing that it is unfair and demanding that the system be abolished or restructured. The group has warned of intensified protests if its concerns remain unaddressed.
The issue carries memories of last year’s demonstrations, which turned violent and resulted in the deaths of at least nine people, including police officers. Although the government later agreed to review several demands, including the refugee-seat dispute, little visible progress has followed, fueling public frustration.
JKAAC’s latest call for a region-wide shutdown and a protest march toward Muzaffarabad is expected to draw participants from multiple districts. Authorities fear that large crowds and heightened emotions could increase the risk of confrontation despite the strong security presence.
With political divisions deepening and election day approaching, the June 9 protest is emerging as a crucial moment that could shape AJK’s path toward either democratic stability or renewed unrest.
